Abstract [en]

Background: Acute and repeated pain has long-term negative impact on infants’ development and future behaviour. The use of analgesic drugs has negative side effects, which emphasises the need for complementary approaches to pain management.

Methods: Preterm and ill term neonates (n = 38) were subjected to venepuncture with and without live infant-directed lullaby singing, in a randomised order with a cross over design. Physiological data were collected and the procedures were videotaped for pain assessment. Parents (n = 11) and staff (n = 11) were interviewed about live singing as affective support. Two premature infants’ behavioural and physiological responses and the live-performed lullaby were analysed in-depth with microanalysis.

Results: Live singing with premature infants is a social communicative interaction. If the vocal performance is predictable and regular from start, it may optimise homeostasis during painful procedures. Since pain involves the interaction of biopsychosocial and situational factors, more research is needed to explore the potential benefits of music therapy including the role of the parents.